Ilkley Town Council has expressed strong objection to the decision of Bradford Council’s Executive Committee regarding proposed parking changes in Ilkley — including the limited compromise to retain approximately 160 one-hour free parking spaces near the town centre.
The Town Council has described this concession as “trivial” and says it fails to address the serious and well-evidenced concerns repeatedly raised by residents, businesses, and councillors.
Despite the clear and detrimental impact on the Ilkley community, Ilkley Town Council was not informed of, or given the opportunity to respond to, the proposed concession and has not been formally notified of the Executive Committee’s resolution. The Council has called this omission “unacceptable and indicative of a concerning lack of transparency and respect for local democracy.”
More than 4,000 residents have formally opposed the parking changes, with 1,558 signing Bradford Council’s own e-petition and a further 2,753 adding their names to a paper petition submitted to the Council in June and July 2025. Ilkley Town Council says the absence of any reference to this substantial public opposition in the Executive Committee’s report is “deeply disappointing.”
The Town Council warns that removing one-hour free parking in central areas will reduce accessibility for those who are disabled, less mobile, elderly, or unable to manage Ilkley’s steep inclines. The Equality Impact Assessment relied upon by Bradford Council, produced in 2023, was not specific to Ilkley’s geography or community needs and is therefore considered by the Town Council to be “wholly inadequate.”
Ilkley Town Council has also criticised the proposed enforcement of parking charges up to 8pm and on Bank Holidays, describing it as an “unnecessary and unjustified burden” that will deter visitors, reduce footfall, and harm local businesses and the town’s economy.
Cllr Jane Gibson, Town Mayor and Chair of Ilkley Town Council, said:
“This decision ignores the overwhelming evidence and the voices of thousands of Ilkley residents and business owners. It will make our town less accessible, less welcoming, and less vibrant. We urge Bradford Council to listen to our community, rescind this damaging decision, and work with us constructively to develop a fair parking policy that supports Ilkley’s economy and residents.”
Ilkley Town Council has called on Bradford Metropolitan District Council to:
- Rescind the Executive Committee’s decision immediately.
- Restore one-hour free parking spaces within Ilkley town centre.
- and review extended charging hours and Bank Holiday enforcement to ensure parking policy supports, rather than harms, the town’s economy and community life.
The Town Council says it remains ready to engage in transparent and constructive dialogue with Bradford Council to achieve a solution that reflects the views and needs of the Ilkley community.
The Box Tree recognised as one of the best restaurants in Leeds
Swing into Christmas promises an evening of festive favourites
Local dads raise £11,892 to support Airedale Hospital and Community Charity
Second leg of 'magical' Santa tour starts on Friday
Yorkshire Water finally lifts five-month hosepipe ban
Don't blame wildlife for £11.7m Kex Gill overspend, say Green councillors
Wanted on suspicion of theft offences locally including Ilkley
Appeal for Christmas food parcel donations
Brave dippers raise more than £5,000 at Sue Ryder’s new cold-water challenge
Quinta named Best Restaurant in England at national awards
Children's charity Christmas celebration in Ilkley
Clayful celebrates one year with creative community events
Ilkley Town Council invites volunteers to join its Planning Committee
Outside the Box welcomes all to first Winter Festival
Ilkley Christmas Tree Festival brings community together in a festive celebration!
New train timetables on Wharfedale Line from Sunday
Ilkley shoppers can spread festive joy by gifting toys this Christmas
Festive dining and talent at Outside the Box
Burley Co-op re-opens with fresh new-look following makeover
An evening with Inbetweeners comedian in Silsden
